Role of the Al Potvin Family Foundation in the Funding Ecosystem
The Al Potvin Family Foundation is a private family foundation established by Al Potvin, a longtime community leader in Almonte, Mississippi Mills, Ontario. The foundation was funded through the sale of Al Potvin's 20-acre farm property and aims to give back to the community that supported his family business, Hilan Creative Playstructures, which built over 1,000 play structures across North America.
Funding Areas and Programs
The foundation concentrates its giving in three main areas:
- Academic Reinforcement (80% allocation): Private tutoring, tutoring centres, and virtual lessons for students struggling academically.
- Counselling (included in 80%): Mental health support including talk therapy, speech therapy, play/music/pet/art therapy, and grief/career guidance counselling.
- Life Opportunities (20% allocation): Sports groups and equipment, music lessons and instruments, travel opportunities, technology support for school work, community service initiatives, and career planning.
Distribution Mechanism
As a foundation unable to distribute funds directly to individuals, the Al Potvin Family Foundation has partnered with the Upper Canada District School Board's Champion for Kids Foundation to administer disbursements ethically and equitably. Referrals are made through school principals at Pakenham Public School, R. Tait McKenzie Public School, Naismith Memorial Public School, and Almonte District High School.
Governance and Leadership
The foundation is governed by Al Potvin's three adult children: Chris, Janice, and Paul Potvin, who serve as directors. This succession ensures the foundation's continued commitment to the Mississippi Mills community.